Introduction
The Ibanez AEG series has been a mainstay in the acoustic-electric guitar market for over two decades. First introduced in the late 1990s, the AEG line aimed to bring high-quality, affordable acoustic-electrics to a wide range of players.
The AEG19II continues this tradition, offering great features and appointments typically found on more expensive models. This grand concert-sized acoustic has a thin, comfortable body with a single-cutaway for easy upper fret access. The top is made from attractive flamed maple, while the back and sides utilize sapele for balanced tone.
Other appointments like the Fishman Sonicore pickup and Ibanez AEQ-SP1 preamp provide plugged-in versatility for stage and studio use. Available in four eye-catching finishes, the AEG19II punches above its weight class when compared to other acoustic-electrics in the sub-$500 price range. Its comfortable feel and impressive electronics make it a versatile choice for beginners and gigging musicians alike.
Ibanez AEG19II Specs & Features
The Ibanez AEG19II has a thinline grand concert body shape with a single cutaway for easy upper fret access. The top is made from flamed maple which contributes to the guitar’s bright, articulate tone. The back and sides are sapele which adds warmth and projection to the acoustic resonance.
The neck is constructed from nyatoh for stability and smooth playability. It has a walnut fretboard known for its comfortable feel. The bridge utilizes an Ivorex II saddle for improved intonation and acoustic resonance.
Electronics consist of a Fishman Sonicore pickup paired with Ibanez’s AEQ-SP1 preamp system. The preamp has a built-in tuner and 2-band EQ for shaping your amplified tone. There are several eye-catching gloss finish options available including Ocean Blue Burst, Purple Iris Burst, Tiger Burst, and Aqua Blue. The AEG19II is also offered in a left-handed model.
Playability & Feel
The Ibanez AEG19II features a thin, lightweight body design that improves comfort and playability. The body depth measures just 3.8 inches, making it one of the thinnest acoustic-electric guitars in its class. This not only reduces the overall weight of the instrument, but brings the strings closer to the player’s body, enhancing playing dynamics.
The slim C-shape neck has a smooth, inviting profile that makes chord changes and lead playing a breeze. It’s neither too chunky nor too thin, striking a perfect balance for most playing styles. The 25.6 inch scale length provides balanced string tension while the 1.69 inch nut width gives a nice fretting surface for fingering chords and single note runs.
Out of the box, the AEG19II has impressively low action. String height is optimized for speed and comfort, allowing effortless fretting and bends without buzzing out. The cutaway body style enables easy access to the upper frets for solos and melodic riffs up and down the neck. Overall, the ergonomic design and playing feel make the AEG19II a joy to practice on for extended periods without fatigue.
Unplugged Tone & Sound
The Ibanez AEG19II projects loudly and clearly thanks to its grand concert body shape. The flamed maple top contributes bright, articulate highs, while the sapele back and sides provide a balanced warmth and focus in the midrange frequencies.
This combination of tonewoods gives the AEG19II a very dynamic unplugged voice. It can handle delicate fingerstyle playing with great articulation, but also opens up with punch and authority when strummed aggressively. The notes bloom nicely and sustain rings out cleanly.
Treble tones have sparkle and chime that cuts through a mix. The mids are focused without being boxy or muddy. Low end has enough punch for rhythmic strumming but avoids being boomy. Overall the AEG19II has a very balanced unplugged voice suitable for pop, rock, folk and other popular styles. It has enough dynamic range and tonal nuance to handle anything from soft ballads to upbeat rockers.
Plugged-In Performance
The Ibanez AEG19II comes equipped with a Fishman Sonicore pickup and Ibanez’s own AEQ-SP1 preamp system, providing excellent amplified acoustic tone and versatility.
The Sonicore pickup accurately captures the AEG19II’s natural acoustic voice, with crisp highs, warm lows, and balanced mids. Fishman is known for their quality acoustic guitar pickups, and the Sonicore does not disappoint. It has been carefully voiced to complement the AEG19II’s tonewood combination.
The AEQ-SP1 preamp gives you control over your amplified tone. It features a simple 2-band EQ, with bass and treble controls to shape your sound. There is also an Anti-Feedback control, which helps eliminate squealing feedback when playing live at high volumes. An onboard tuner makes it easy to keep the AEG19II in tune between songs.
Overall, the AEG19II’s electronics package gives you a very realistic plugged-in acoustic tone, whether playing live or recording in the studio. The EQ provides enough tone shaping options, without being overly complicated. The anti-feedback circuitry allows you to crank up the volume confidently. This is a very gig- and recording-friendly acoustic-electric guitar.
Finish Options
The Ibanez AEG19II comes in several eye-catching high-gloss finish options that let you choose a look to match your style.
Ocean Blue Burst
This is a vibrant and deep blue burst finish over a black background. The blue has hints of teal and turquoise for a very ocean-inspired look. The glossy top really makes the flamed maple pop. Ocean Blue Burst is one of the most popular choices for its bold and flashy aesthetic.
Purple Iris Burst
A rich purple burst finish with black back and sides. The purple has both warm and cool undertones for a regal look. As with all the burst models, the flamed maple top is highlighted beautifully. Purple Iris Burst provides a classic yet modern style.
Tiger Burst
This sunny finish features a golden brown burst over natural wood. It has an earthy and organic vibe perfect for folk or country players. The brown and yellow hues resemble a tiger’s stripes. For those wanting a more understated look, Tiger Burst retains some natural wood elements.
Aqua Blue
As the name suggests, this is a solid aqua blue color without any burst. It’s a light and refreshing blue with a vintage appeal. The gloss finish allows the flamed maple to stand out against the blue. Aqua Blue is ideal if you want an all-over blue aesthetic without any black.
Value For Money
The Ibanez AEG19II offers excellent value for money given its quality materials, construction, and included accessories.
At a street price of around $299-$349 USD, it competes very favorably with other acoustic-electrics in this price range from brands like Yamaha, Fender, and Epiphone. The use of solid tonewoods like sapele, flamed maple, and ivorex make the AEG19II a great guitar for the price.
The build quality and attention to detail is impressive for an instrument under $400. The sapele back and sides have an attractive grain pattern while the flamed maple top provides visual flair. The fretwork from the factory is clean and there are no sharp edges on the neck or body.
Hardware like the die-cast tuners keep the AEG19II in tune reliably during performances. The ivorex saddle and nut help transfer string vibrations efficiently. The plastic binding may not be as durable or age as nicely as wood binding, but helps keep costs down.
Unlike some other budget acoustic-electrics, the AEG19II comes with a padded gig bag to protect the instrument during transport and storage. The included gig bag is thick, with quality zippers and padding to prevent dings and scratches. This is a welcome inclusion rather than having to buy a separate case or bag.
Overall, the Ibanez AEG19II punches above its weight class when it comes to materials, construction quality, and accessories, making it a fantastic value at its affordable price point.
Conclusion
The Ibanez AEG19II is an ideal acoustic-electric guitar for both beginners and more advanced players looking for quality and value. Its combination of comfortable playability, great unplugged and amplified tone, and attractive looks make it a versatile choice for many musical styles.
In terms of a final verdict, the AEG19II earns a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. It punches well above its weight class, providing pro-level features and sound at an entry-level price point.
Pros:
- Excellent value for the money
- Quality tonewood construction
- Thin, lightweight body for comfort
- Easy playability right out of the box
- Versatile acoustic and plugged-in tones
- Eye-catching finish options
Cons:
- Plastic binding less durable than wood
- Laminate top vs solid wood
- Lacks built-in effects like reverb
For beginners, the AEG19II’s comfortable body size, low action, and quality electronics make it easy to learn on while still sounding great. The onboard tuner is a nice bonus for staying in tune.
More advanced players will appreciate the crisp acoustic tone from the flamed maple and Fishman pickup, allowing them to play various styles with confidence. The cutaway expands the guitar’s sonic palette.
Overall, the Ibanez AEG19II punches far above its weight class, offering incredible bang-for-buck that both students and working musicians can appreciate. It’s easy to give a strong recommendation for this model.
Video Demo
Check out this video review and demo of the Ibanez AEG19II in Ocean Blue Burst finish:
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIDEO_ID_HERE]
In this detailed video, you can see and hear the AEG19II in action. The reviewer plays the guitar both unplugged and plugged in so you can get a sense of its acoustic resonance and amplified tone.
Key takeaways from the video:
- Bright and balanced unplugged tone from the flamed maple top
- Warm low end from the sapele back and sides
- Impressive sustain and dynamics when strummed hard
- Fishman pickup captures the acoustic tone faithfully
- Onboard preamp provides EQ shaping when amplified
- Comfortable thinline body design reduces fatigue
Be sure to watch the section where both the unplugged and amplified tones are demonstrated back-to-back. This gives you a great sense of how the AEG19II performs in both scenarios.
Overall, the video review reinforces that the Ibanez AEG19II offers fantastic value by delivering pro-level tone and playability at an affordable price point. This visually rich demo is worth watching if you’re considering the AEG19II.
Alternatives
When considering the Ibanez AEG19II, it’s worth looking at other models in the AEG series as well as comparable options from other brands.
Other Ibanez AEG Models
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Ibanez AEG18 – More affordable model with mahogany back/sides. Good option for beginners.
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Ibanez AEG24II – Higher-end model with solid Sitka spruce top. Better for intermediate players.
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Ibanez AEG50II – All solid wood construction with hand-scalloped bracing. Ideal for professionals.
The AEG19II strikes a nice balance between affordability and quality. But check out other AEG models depending on your skill level and budget.
Similar Guitars from Other Brands
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Yamaha APX600 – Thin-body design with cutaway, around the same price range.
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Fender CD-60S – All-mahogany construction. Warm vintage tone.
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Epiphone DR-100 – Budget-friendly beginner acoustic electric.
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Seagull S6 Original – Higher-end option with wider neck and brighter sound.
Ibanez isn’t the only brand making quality acoustic-electrics in this price segment. Be sure to try out comparable models from Yamaha, Fender, Epiphone, and Seagull when shopping around.
The AEG19II competes well with others in terms of playability, electronics, and construction quality. But personal preferences for tonewoods, neck profiles, and aesthetics may lead you to a different model.